Who was accused of being a Soviet spy in 1948 and convicted of perjury?

Alger Hiss was accused of being a Soviet spy in 1948 and was convicted of perjury due to his denial of having passed classified documents to the Soviet Union. The allegations against him stemmed from the accusations made by Whittaker Chambers, a former communist who became a significant witness in the case. Hiss's trial was notable during the early years of the Cold War, highlighting the intense fear of communism in the United States at that time.

Hiss's conviction was largely based on the evidence presented by Chambers, including documents and microfilm that were purported to have been given to him by Hiss. The case captured national attention and became emblematic of the broader Red Scare and the government's efforts to root out perceived communist influences. Understanding the context surrounding Hiss's political life and the atmosphere of suspicion during that era helps to clarify why he became such a pivotal figure in discussions about espionage and loyalty in post-war America.